Relations between India and Bangladesh have reached a critical juncture as India has decided to close its Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Dhaka. This significant move comes in response to the rapidly deteriorating security situation in. Bangladesh and the escalating atrocities against Hindus and other minorities within the country. India has expressed profound concern, going as far as to label Bangladesh as 'another Pakistan' that's becoming a 'festering sore' for India.
Escalating Security Concerns and Atrocities on Minorities
Bangladesh has witnessed a sharp decline in its overall security environment recently. Disturbingly, there has been a noticeable increase in incidents of persecution and atrocities targeting Hindu and other minority communities, while india views these developments with grave concern, as they raise serious questions about human rights and the rule of law in the neighboring nation. The Indian government believes that Bangladesh is following a path similar to Pakistan, where minorities are consistently subjected to harassment and violence. This situation is particularly alarming for India, a country that played a pivotal role in Bangladesh's liberation from Pakistan and has historically nurtured it as a younger sibling.
Summoning the Bangladeshi Ambassador and India's Demands
Prior to the closure of the visa center in Dhaka, India summoned the Bangladeshi ambassador in New Delhi. During this meeting, India conveyed its serious concerns regarding the worsening. Security situation in Bangladesh and the safety of Indian missions and minorities. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs explicitly stated its expectation that the interim government in Bangladesh would ensure the security of missions and posts, in line with its diplomatic obligations. However, the lack of concrete and satisfactory measures from the neighboring country to address these concerns ultimately led India to take the drastic step of closing its visa center.
Closure of IVAC at Jamuna Future Park, Dhaka
The Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) located at Jamuna Future Park (JFP) in Dhaka serves as the primary integrated hub for all Indian visa services in the capital, while iVAC issued an announcement via its official 'X' (formerly Twitter) handle, stating, "Considering the current security situation, we would like to inform you that IVAC JFP Dhaka will be closed today at 2 PM. " The announcement further clarified that all appointment slots for applicants scheduled for submission on Wednesday would be rescheduled for a later date, while this closure will undoubtedly cause significant inconvenience for Indian citizens and visa applicants in Bangladesh, but the Indian government deemed it necessary for security reasons.
Relations between India and Bangladesh began to sour following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power. During Sheikh Hasina's tenure, India-Bangladesh relations were solid, characterized by strong cooperation across various sectors. However, since the interim government assumed power, Bangladesh has experienced increased political instability and security challenges, directly impacting bilateral ties. India has repeatedly voiced its apprehension regarding these deteriorating conditions, but the absence of a substantial response from Bangladesh has culminated in this firm action.
Bangladesh Becoming a 'Festering Sore' for India
India played a crucial role in Bangladesh's independence from Pakistan and has always viewed it as a friendly nation. India has Notably contributed to Bangladesh's development and has stood by it through thick and thin, while however, Bangladesh is now perceived as becoming a threat to India, especially given its failure to control atrocities against minorities and the worsening security landscape. This situation is akin to a 'festering sore' for India, signaling the rise of another unstable and potentially hostile nation in its immediate neighborhood. The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and remains committed to taking all necessary steps to safeguard its interests and the security of its citizens.
